Counterpoint -

14th. September 2011

Counterpoint - Raise Your Standards!

At a recent meeting, I was saddened to hear expressed a prevailing apathy and cynicism in some individuals towards the solving of a particularly enduring problem. It seemed to me that failure had become an acceptable option and that people had become more inclined to walk away than to persevere.

At times like these, a change of who is analyzing the problem, and how they are proposing to address it, is crucial, or the project will stall and develop a critical lack of momentum. I am sure we all know people who have become disenfranchised. Perhaps it has happened to you. This can result in many unfortunate outcomes such as disruptiveness and loss of moral, waste of human resources, and lack of progress on a given goal. It also means the right person for the job, the person with the skills, interest and motivation, has not been empowered.

Like other volunteer organizations, we are continually facing the challenge of plugging the 'hole in the dyke' with a willing volunteer. This is highly characteristic of a market where there are infinite demands for finite resources, and it occurs in paid and voluntary organizations alike. Change is not the enemy in these cases. It is, infact, the solution. Plugged holes should never be filled with disinterested people.

Sociologist Margaret Mead said, "Don't doubt that a small group of thoughtful people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has," and in present day this is exemplified by the work of The Global Fund and the like towards the MDGs. This quote reminds us that nothing is impossible if you find the right people with the right attitude. Failure does not have to be an option. Perseverance does not have to run out. We should always be willing to discuss how we can challenge ourselves and challenge others to eliminate apathy. 

Raise your standards! Decide what you are no longer willing to accept in your life and create change based on that. Start with yourself. Do you want more compassion, peace and tolerance? Be more compassionate, peaceful and tolerant. Identify what you are no longer willing to accept and eliminate it. Nothing happens without you making it so. Know that and raise your standards for a better world. 

Cheers to All!

JO BEILBY

Yours in Rotary Friendship, 

President 2011-12